SNAP Ends In Texas – What To Know And How To Help

It's official - Due to the government shutdown Texas SNAP benefits will stop on November 1st. Neither recipients nor food banks across the state are ready.

About 3.2 million Texans, about half of which are kids, rely on SNAP benefits making Texas the #1 state for "food insecurity". 1 in 6 Texas households are struggling.

Local food banks across Texas are, as always, doing their best but they were not ready for the demand a complete cutoff such as this would initiate.

Some Texas food banks are already reporting up to a 35% increase in people needing their help and the SNAP suspension hasn't even fully kicked in yet. SNAP recipients will eventually get their benefits but, in the meantime, things are going to be tough.

Where Can I Get Food?

Feeding Texas has an online directory of Texas food banks. The El Pasoans Fighting Hunger food bank works with the El Paso area.

To find other food pantry's around El Paso, click here or dial 211 and select option 1. You can also visit the Texas Health and Human Services website. Meals On Wheels  brings food to people in rural areas and to those who can't get out like the elderly and handicapped.

How Can I Get Help Buying Food?

SNAP benefits you have not yet used are still good. You can also try WIC or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. (TANF) Kids who qualify for SNAP can usually get free or discounted breakfast and lunch at school. Check yours here.

How Can I Help?

Many businesses are stepping in to help out like HEB who recently donated $6 million to food related causes ... $5 million to Feeding Texas Food Banks and $1 million to Meals On Wheels.

You probably don't have that kind of cash laying around but you can still donate. Local food banks will happily take food donations but cash is better. They buy in bulk at discounted rates so they stretch their dollars a lot farther. Cash goes farther than cans.

READ MORE: No SNAP In New Mexico Either

You can also organize a food drive in your community or volunteer to assist at one. For food donations, remember these basics:

Bring small to medium sized loads to a food distribution site, or look for collection boxes at a local school or church. For amounts weighing more than 1,500 pounds, contact a food pantry to schedule a pick-up.

Before donating, check expiration dates and confirm that the place you’re headed will accept your contributions, as restrictions vary by site. - texastribune.org